Planning a trip to Paris can be overwhelming, but with the right strategy, you'll be able to make the most of your time in the City of Light.
Here's a guide to help you plan your perfect Paris trip.
1. Where to stay: Choose the right neighborhood
Finding the perfect neighborhood is key to your Paris experience.
Central areas like the lively Marais, the chic Saint-Germain-des-Prés, or the charming Quartier Latin offer a great base to explore the city. If you're looking for a more authentic Parisian experience, consider staying in the Charonne or Bastille area to blend in with the locals. You may also consider Montmartre, one of the most picturesque areas in Paris, but keep in mind that it's on top of a hill and not centrally located. Plus, the surrounding neighborhoods like Barbès or Pigalle (home to the Moulin Rouge) can feel unsafe. Avoid Belleville and Porte de Montmartre, no matter what – they are not safe, even for Parisians.
2. Prioritize your must-see spots
Make a list of your non-negotiable must-dos before arriving. Iconic attractions like the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre have limited availability or require advance booking, so check conditions and book early when necessary. Same goes for specific tours or dinner cruises.
Pro tip: Keep an eye on temporary events—some exhibits are unforgettable, and so are unique experiences like ice skating at the Grand Palais in winter or enjoying an ephemeral rooftop in the summer.
3. Group your activities by neighborhood
Paris is a large city, and to avoid wasting time, plan your days by grouping sights in the same neighborhood. Use a map to strategically organize your itinerary to reduce travel time between locations. An easy example is the Eiffel Tower, which is not in the city center.
Download the free guide I created with a walking tour of the picture-perfect spots around the tower. Check out the interactive Google map and you'll see my point here!
4. Don’t overpack your Paris itinerary
Avoid cramming too many activities into one day. One main activity per day, maybe two, is a good balance. This leaves room for spontaneous discoveries and relaxation, so you can enjoy Paris at a slower, more authentic pace.
5. Pre-book some restaurants
Booking restaurants in advance is smart, but don’t feel like you have to schedule every meal. Leave a couple of meals open for spontaneous dining discoveries. This gives you the chance to explore and just stop at a café or bistro when the moment feels right. Alternatively, you may select 2 or 3 restaurants for the same lunch/dinner and just decide on the spot which one has your preference.
6. Be prepared and manage your expectations
Paris is an incredible city, but it might not be exactly like the picture-perfect version you see on Instagram. Prepare yourself for the real Paris – it’s charming, but it also has its challenges, like any big city. Stay open-minded, and you’ll have a wonderful time.
7. Watch out for overly Instagrammable spots
Instagrammable cafés and photo spots may be popular, but they’re not always the best. Some places are more about the look than the experience. Be selective with where you go, and make sure it aligns with your personal interests.
8. Use travel reviews wisely to plan a trip to Paris
Reviews can be helpful but don’t rely on just one opinion. If there’s a single bad review, don’t worry too much about it. But if several reviews mention the same issue, it’s likely a real concern, so steer clear.
9. Plan for airport transport and luggage storage
Look into airport transportation and luggage storage before your departure. Regular taxis are your best option for ease and safety. Be cautious of scams, and avoid the train – it can be a bit challenging upon arrival as the airport isn’t in the best area.
10. Take your time and enjoy the city’s vibe
Paris is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. Don’t rush from one attraction to the next. Instead, take time to soak up the atmosphere, people-watch, and stroll through the streets.
Bonus
Don't forget to pack comfortable shoes (you’ll walk a lot!) and an umbrella (the weather can be unpredictable).
Click here to tell me about your trip – I can help you create the perfect itinerary to explore Paris at your own pace!
P.S. Don’t forget to download my free guide featuring insider tips and a detailed walking tour of the picture-perfect spots around the Eiffel Tower!
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